What Is a Proxy Server?
A proxy server acts as a middleman, sitting between you and the website you want to visit.
Instead of visiting the website directly, you tell the proxy server to connect to it for you.
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This is like hiring a messenger to deliver mail to someone.
What Is a Proxy Server Used For?
Proxy servers are useful to have, but why do people use them?
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When iPlayer checks your geographical location, it sees the proxy server’s IP instead of your own.
It recognizes the proxy server as a UK-based source and permits the server to access its data.
This data is passed onto you, allowing you to watch Doctor Who no matter where you are.
There are some things proxy servers can’t do that you better keep in mind.
As a result, proxy servers are a poor choice if you want privacy from a prying ISP.
If you want to do this, you’re better off with a VPN.
It’s also great for protecting your connections from spying in general.
Therefore, proxy servers aren’t a solution for protecting your data from prying eyes over unsecured connections.
Seeour comparison of proxies and VPNsfor more info on the differences.
Are Proxy Servers Safe and Legal to Use?
Unfortunately, using a public proxy server does carry its risks.
These risks can either affect your privacy or your gear security.
For the former, cast your mind back to when we discussed business uses for proxy servers.
We mentioned that the server owner can monitor connections and data passed through the server.
Also, free proxy servers require a lot of advertising to keep things going.
The best way to prevent this is to use a private proxy service ormake your own online proxy server.
Once set up, you might browse the web without any fear of spying or bad advertising.
